This week’s highlights in La Liga include an historic come back from Betis against Barça, Villareal moving up to second after beating Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid increasing their lead at the top of the table after beating Sevilla at home.

Felipe Bazon has all the details.

Betis 3 vs 2 Barcelona

Another disaster for Barcelona as they threw away a chance to put pressure in the leaders Real Madrid. Barça started the match at a high tempo and were 2 up inside 20 minutes with goals from young talent Bojan and their experienced centre forward Samuel Eto’o. After the break though it was a different story. Betis pulled a goal back just after the hour mark with Edu getting on the end of a cross from Sobis. Minutes later Victor Valdez saved a penalty from Edu but Betis were not to be denied and equalised through Juanito before Edu gave them the lead with a shot from outside the box.

Villareal 3 vs 0 Atlético Madrid

Home advantage did the trick for Villareal as they won the clash against the team just below them. Villareal put in an almost perfect performance - Carzola gave them the lead and minutes before the break, after a nice combination between Rossi, Carzola set up Nihat for the second. 20 minutes later it was Nihat again who punished the visitors as Villareal over took Barca in the table to move up to second woth Atléitco maintaining fourth place.

Almería 2 vs 1 Levante

Almería were one up in this game within 2 minutes as Soriano chested home a corner taken by Mané which was completely misjudged by the visiting keeper. Their second came much the same way, Mané again the provider from the corner and this time Felipe Mello heading home. Levante tried to respond and pulled a goal back through Iborra but it was too little, too late as Almería took all three points to secure their place in La Liga next season.

Deportivo La Coruña 3 vs 1 Murcia

The visitors, through De Luca, were ahead in this game within 60 seconds but a hat trick from Xisco gave the victory to the home side. First Xisco got in on the end of a cross from Wilhelmsson before two more second half goals from Xisco within 3 minutes of each other made the game safe. The victory moved the home side four points clear of the relegation battle.

Valencia 0 vs 3 Mallorca

Another hugely disappointing home display by Valencia who started brightly but faded as mallorca gained the upper hand. Spanish international Guiza put the vistors in front and they increased that advantage ten minutes later through Ramis. Guiza popped up again on the hour mark to seal the win as Mallorca took another step to keeping their top flight status. Valencia meanwhile were once again booed from the pitch amid shouts of “Koeman vete ya” (leave now Koeman).

Espanyol 0 vs 3 Racing Santander

Espanyol were poor as Racing won three easy points away from home. Two first half chances resulted in two goals for the visitors - the first from Óscar Serrano and the second from Munitis. Espanyol did create four good chances but couldn’t put any of them away and Iván Bolado made them pay as he hit Racing’s third deep in to injury time. The victory puts Racing equal on points with Atlético Madrid.

Recreativo 1 vs 1 Athletic Bilbao

In the only draw of this round in La Liga, relegation threatened Recreativo dominated the match from start to finish and took the lead in lucky circumstances as a dubious corner from Martíns was put through his own net by Amorebieta. The home side continued to control the game but a late goal by Aduriz levelled the scores and Athletic took a point back to Bilbao.

Getafe 0 vs 2 Osasuna

Osasuna won an important victory with the three points moving them away from the relegation zone. Getafe enjoyed the lions share of possession but rarely threatened with their minds, perhaps, on this week’s clash with Bayer Munich in the UEFA Cup. Coach Laudrup rested many of his star players and paid the price in front of their home fans. Osasuna went one up just before the break with a goal from defender Miguel Flaño and penalty in the second half taken by Puñal sealed the victory for the visitors.

Valladolid 2 vs 1 Zaragoza

Valladolid came from behind to win this match and three precious points to assist in their fight for survival. Zapater opened up the scoring for Zaragoza who went in to break with a 1 - 0 lead. Valladolid’s response was prompted by the referee who awarded them a questionable penalty which was converted by Victor. The home team then upped the pace and their efforts were duly rewarded when Llorent scored the winner from a Sesma cross.

Real Madrid 3 vs 1 Sevilla

Real Madrid went six points clear at the top of the table as they forgot past failures to ease past a Sevilla side that has struggled in recent time to recapture the form of a few months ago. Real Madrid went one up through former Manchester United player Heinze, only for the visitors to equalise through another former Premier League star, Freddy Kanoute. Sevilla weren’t on terms for long though as Madrid captain Ra úl restored their advantage with his 290th goal for the club - only the great Di Stéfano has more than him. Sevilla’s goal keeper Palop maintained the visitors’ hopes with a string of good saves before he was beaten for a third time in the game by Higuaín.

This week both Inter and Roma stumbled at the top of the table, settling for away draws. Milan’s well below average season continued with a loss at home to Atalanta while Udinese hosted Fiorentina in a very entertaining match as things stayed interesting near the top of the table in the race for the last Champions League spot. In other news, the tragic death of a Parma fan on the way to the match against Juventus meant the game had to be called off.

Allan Oliveira reports

Cagliari vs Roma (1-1)

Cagliari are off the bottom after first winning back three docked points after a legal appeal and then holding the mighty Roma to a draw. They found themselves ahead after just three minutes through an own goal when a corner kick came off Ferrari and ended up in the back to the net. Roma had a good chance to equalise not long after but Mancini hit the post. Luckily for them, Totti was able to level the score just before halftime although the captain had to come off later with a suspected thigh injury. Not great news for the club ahead of their Champions League clash with Manchester United. Despite Roma pressure, Cagliari held on for a share of the spoils and in doing so, moved up to 17th.

Lazio vs Inter (1-1)

Inter travelled to visit Roma’s city rivals with much of the talk centering on Jose Mourinho who many belive will take over from current coach Roberto Mancini. Crespo put Inter ahead after 11 minutes when Maicon found him with a nice low pass near the 6 yard line allowing him a simple tap in. The sides continued to exchange blows with both keepers very active before, just around the hour mark, Rocchi completely beat the offside trap and then slotted past Julio Cesar. Lazio were very unlucky in the remaining minutes as the crossbar saved Inter not once but twice. The home side find themselves in 11th place in the table.

Milan vs Atalanta (1-2)

Milan hosted mid-table Atalanta on Sunday and were shocked in the first half, finding themselves two goals down thanks to Floccari and Langella. Although much stronger after the restart, they only managed to pull one goal back when Maldini nodded in on 85 minutes. Within seconds Nesta was sent off after the Milan players surrounded the ref following a foul by their goal scorer. Two minutes after that Milan were awarded a penalty and a chance to equalise following a tackle on Ambrosini. However Pirlo was thwarted by a great save from the visitor’s keeper. The Rossoneri’s hopes of Champions League football next season took another knock as Udinese went above them in the table. .

Catania vs Torino (1-2)

A great start to this encounter saw two goals in the space of five minutes. First Spinesi scored for the home side from a Vargas corner kick and then minutes later Diana equalised after combining with Recoba. Although Catania continued to play well before the break, they wasted several chances and were made to pay as just after the hour Di Michele put the visitors ahead and sealed all three points. Catania are now level on points with Cagliari and Parma, all just above the relegation zone while Torino are 5 points clear of all three.

Empoli vs Sampdoria (0-2)

Sampdoria made short work of their hosts and had the match effectively wrapped up in under 20 minutes. First Sammarco found the net with a long range effort on 7 minutes and then Marzoratti helped out with an own goal just ten minutes later. Sampdoria continued to play well and really should have scored more. The result draws them level with Milan and close to Udinese and Fiorentina meanwhile Empoli take over from Cagliari as the team propping up table.

Genoa vs Reggina (2-0)

The first half of this match produced no goals but it did produce some fine saves from Genoa’s Rubinho as well as a goal-line clearance from Tognozzi after Di Vaio lobbed the keeper. On the sixty minute mark Serie A top scorer Borriello put his side in front after Campagnolo parried a strike into his path and he punished the Reggina keeper for the mistake. Rossi wrapped things up in stoppage time with a powerful drive from just outside the box to make it 2 - 0. Genoa stay in eighth spot while Reggina slide down one to 19th.

Juventus vs Parma

Postponed.

Livorno vs Siena (0-0)

The Tuscan derby ended in a fairly lacklustre draw although Siena’s keeper, Manninger was kept fairly busy. Diamanti gave the former Arsenal keeper a couple of free kicks to deal with and also sent Tavano clear on one occasion but Manninger was on hand again to save the day and ensure a share of the spoils. Livorno drop into 18th position while Siena are still in 13th.

Udinese vs Fiorentina (3-1)

Both sides came out strong in this match with end to end attacking football but it was Udinese that found the opener when Inler smashed home a screamer from just outside the area. Pepe and Di Natale were keeping Frey busy while Osvaldo and Pazzini tested his counterpart in Handanovic at the other end. Vieri equalised for the visitors after coming off the bench only to see Di Natale restoring the home team’s advantage after a counter-attack on 72 minutes. Another goal on the break just five minutes later saw Quagliarella wrap things up for Udinese who leap-frog Milan into fifth and close the gap to three points between them and their visitors.

Napoli vs Palermo (1-0)

As has been the case lately, Napoli managed another win at home although they made their fans wait right until the death as Hamsik grabbed a winner in the third minute of injury time. Both sides started well with plenty of action early on and Fontana was called on several times to thwart Napoli’s efforts. Although it could have gone either way, the match seemed destined to end in a draw until Hamsik’s powerful header gave his side all three points. Napoli climb back to 10th this week while Palermo drop another spot to 13th.

The standings

1st Inter 69pts 31 played
2nd Roma 65pts 31 played
3rd Juventus 58pts 30 played
4th Fiorentina 53pts 31 played
5th Udinese 50pts 31 played
6th AC Milan 49pts 31 played

If a pair of your muddy football boots lay undisturbed in an attic for 30 odd years, you’d imagine that upon their discovery, they’d be worthless and headed straight for the dustbin.

But when the football boots in question belong to a football genius, then it’s another matter entirely.

Back in the 1970’s, following a Northern Ireland game, a certain George Best handed the football boots over to Pat Jennings for safe keeping to “hang on to while I go into town.”

The football boots, still covered in mud, with the laces still tied and not seen in public since then, are now to go on display, forming part of an exhibition at the inaugural George Best Golf Invitational this summer.

Jennings recently donated the boots to Best’s sister, Barbara McNarry, after rediscovering them.

Meanwhile the golf tournament which takes place in early July will raise money for the George Best Foundation.

A number of sporting celebrities including Jennings and Rugby World Cup winner Matt Dawson have confirmed they will be attending the Ballymena event which will also be open to the public.

As well as the golf, there will also be the first exhibition of Best’s personal possessions, including his 1968 European Cup winners’ medal, his 1968 British Player of the Year trophy and his cherished Mini Cooper ‘S’.

Game Switch Angers Chelsea

Chelsea are unhappy about playing two games in 72 hours. Their opponents Everton said “they fully support their broadcast partners”. Chelsea said ” It undermines the sporting integrity of the competition.” A bit like the Chelsea team swarming around Mike Riley after Ashley Cole scythed down Alan Hutton of Tottenham, now that’s sporting integrity.

Game Switch Chelsea

Jose For Inter?

Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho looks to have given the biggest clue yet as to where he will manage next. On Inter speculation, his agent confirmed, “He (Mourinho) always showed interest in working in Italy, and he received the contact with pleasure.” The Footy Boots Portuguese translator understood it slightly differently, “Jose is interested in any job that will support his ego, and he likes it when you gently rub him behind the ears”.

Jose for Inter

Liverpool Owners War Continues

George Gillett confirmed his relationship with Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks is unworkable. Well strike us down with a Cantona karate chop, and there we all were thinking they got on better than McClaren and Downing.

Liverpool Owners War Continues

Madrid Beat London to Host 2010 Champions League Final

The Bernabeu Stadium Madrid will stage the 2010 Champions League final after Wembley Stadium lost out because of tax reasons. Uefa President Michel Platini said, “The concerns we had over players being taxed were not confirmed by the British government.” Footy Boots message to Platini, “Please confirm that when we move the Footy Boots HQ to Calais, the French government will waive all tax?

Madrid Wins 2010 Champions League Final

Wenger Backs Gallas

Gallas wouldn’t leave the pitch after the Birmingham game, he came out and slated young teammate Theo Walcott in the media and Gallas put on a better show for the SkySports cameraman before playing Chelsea than Torvill and Dean did the Boléro at the 1984 winter Olympics. Naturally his manager Wenger fumed “He has my full support and my full backing.”

Wenger Backs Gallas

WAGs (wives and girlfriends)

Less than three months now until the big wedding. And Rooney’s WAG Coleen McLoughlin is warming up nicely, she spent 11 hours getting herself fitted up for her wedding dress. Meanwhile, Wayne was chuffed at his new ‘whistle and flute’ he picked up for a fiver at Matalan’s.

Coleen McLoughlin’s Marathon of a Dress Fitting

It is time to start studying Sky TV’s ‘crossbar challenge’ in earnest and to get off the sofa and hone those keepy-uppy skills.

The reason? Because skills like that, or ones on a similar bent, could be good enough to get you and your mates to the Champions League final in Moscow on 21st May.

Vodafone, under the banner of their ‘Champions Wanted’ campaign are offering this superb prize to the team that can first impress their judges on film and then beat seven other chosen finalists in a 5 a side competition in London next month.

The kind of entries that Vodafone are looking for include individual and team skills, feats of supreme goalkeeping, great shooting, the ultimate goal scoring feat or moments of genius. And you should have a great chance as bearing in mind the criteria, none of the current England team judging by their collective performance this week against France, will be eligible to apply.

All you need to do is prove you’ve got what it takes by filming you and your mates in action then sending Vodafone a video message to 66444 (standard MMS charges apply) or upload it to www.vodafone.co.uk/skills which is also the address where you can find out the complete details of the competition and the kind of entries Vodafone are looking for.

You’ll also be able to marvel at the skills of Formula 1 ace Lewis Hamilton (yes, sickeningly, not only can the boy drive like the wind but he’s pretty damn good with a football as well), watch Owen Hargreaves do his stuff blindfold plus get a look at England cricketers Michael Vaughan and Matthew Hoggard doing their thing. And they’re not bad either.

The 8 teams with the best videos will compete against each other in a 5 a side tournament in London on 12th April - the winning team will then be guaranteed a trip to Russia, representing Vodafone UK in the Vodafone Cup as well as securing tickets and hospitality for the Champions League final.

The closing date for entries is 2nd April so get practising and get filming.

David Beckham’s Gold Adidas Predator PowerSwerve Football Boots

So Beck’s was granted his 100th cap and as you would expect from the King of Bling when it comes to football boots, he strutted, well he cantered in a nice sparkling pair of Gold football boots, courtesy of Adidas.

Before the game, ardent football boot watchers may have felt deflated, Beckham was warming up at the Stade de France in white PowerSwerve football boots with gold trim - his run of the mill football boots from the DB collection.

But cometh the hour, cometh the photo opportunity!

Beckham certainly didn’t let us down, coming out for the match sporting an embroidered shirt with 100th cap on the chest and yes, sporting a pristine pair of Gold Boots. Golden boots for GoldenBalls.

Having checked with the Footy Boots head boot geek, we can confirm that Beckham’s Gold Boots are no different to his normal Predator PowerSwerves, that is of course apart from the colour. Adidas have made just two pairs of Beckham’s Gold Boots, with 100th cap embroidered on the tongue to commemorate his achievement.

Like Zidane’s football boots in the 2006 World Cup, Beckham’s Gold football boots will not be made available for sale by Adidas.

It’s all getting very Italian at Loftus Road.

Italian joint owner in Flavio Britaore, Italian manager in Luigi de Canio and now, if the players don’t do the business on the pitch, they are in serious danger of waking up next to a horses head or swimming with the fishes. You hear what I’m saying? Capiche?

Well perhaps, not quite that extreme.

But the Italian connection at Queens Park Rangers has been further strengthened after the club announced that next season’s official kit supplier will be Lotto Sport Italia.

The deal could be worth as much as £20 million over five seasons, depending on the success of QPR as the club embarks on its mission to achieve Premier League football and represents the most lucrative sponsorship deal in the London club’s history.

Lotto Sport Italia will be providing new home and away kits and training wear for the first team through to the Centre of Excellence, as well as developing additional lines of stylish and fashionable QPR branded clothing and shoes.

The contract also includes a substantial annual investment for the duration of the contract into QPR’s ‘Football In The Community’ scheme, which will assist the department’s continued efforts to improve the standard of life for people within the local area.

Andrea Tomat, President of Lotto Sport Italia, said: “We cannot wait to start this new alliance with a team that we feel very close to Lotto. This is an important partnership which will enhance the brand awareness of Lotto not only in the UK but also at international level, thanks to the worldwide media coverage of English football and in particular of Queens Park Rangers and the club’s new owners.”

“This partnership with QPR will also see both parties develop mutually-beneficial commercial ideas along with new product lines - also for leisure wear - inspired by the team with an unmistakeable Italian touch.”

Flavio Briatore, chairman of QPR Holdings Limited, added: “This is the first significant new partnership for the club since I became involved, and I am very excited about it. Lotto Sport Italia are the perfect fit as our new kit supplier. As a brand, I am certain that their involvement will benefit us on and off the pitch.

“I am delighted with the design of the new team strip, which maintains the QPR tradition of blue and white hoops. I know how important it is to the fans that the hoops remain, and that was always going to be the case.”

The new kit design for next season will be revealed at a later date. Compulsory attendance by the media will be called for and for those hacks who don’t pitch up, they can expect a visit from a chap who’s middle name is ‘The’.

Back in the spring of 2006, as we waited for Sven to lead England to World Cup glory (ahem) Footy Boots brought you the definitive list of boots worn by the England squad.

Two years on and with the cream of the Premier League about to be unleashed on the Parisian public, we thought it was high time to see how things have changed, particularly with the announcement of the new Nike Total 90 Laser II as worn by Wayne Rooney and the new colourways from Umbro for the SX Flare, Michael Owen’s football boot, and the SX Valor, the choice of defender John Terry.

So, after exhaustive research which involved at least 3 emails to a couple of mates with nothing better to do over Easter, here’s our guide to who’s wearing what in Fabio Capello’s 23 man squad to face France.

Of course, if you know better, we’d love to hear from you.

Goalkeepers

Paul Robinson - Nike T90 Laser White/Black/Charcoal

David James - Kelme (working with Kelme on the design of a new boot)
Robert Green - Umbro Speciali

Defenders

John Terry - Umbro SX Valor Red/White/Blue

Rio Ferdinand - Nike T90 Laser II
Ashley Cole - adidas F50.8 Tunit (contract) using Predator Absolute
Wes Brown - adidas Predator PowerSwerve TRX Black/White/Red
Joleon Lescott - adidas F50.7 Tunit II White Blue
Wayne Bridge - Puma King Exec - White/Black
Glen Johnson - adidas Predator Absolute Champions League Black/White/Zest
Jonathan Woodgate - adidas Predator Power Swerve TRX Black/White/Red

Midfielders

David Bentley - Puma V-Konstrukt II FG White/Silver/Insignia

Frank Lampard - adidas adiPure TRX White/Black
Joe Cole - Nike Air Legend II White/Black
Steven Gerrard - adidas Predator PowerSwerve TRX Black/White/Red
David Beckham - adidas Predator PowerSwerve TRX FG DB White/Gold
Stewart Downing - adidas F50.7 Tunit II Poppy Red
Gareth Barry - Umbro Speciali Italia Black/White/Red
Owen Hargreaves - Nike T90 Laser White/Black/Dark Charcoal

Forwards

Wayne Rooney - Nike T90 Laser II Black/Green

Michael Owen - Umbro SX Flare Red/White/Black

Peter Crouch - Puma V1.06 K-Leather Black
Theo Walcott - Nike Mercurial Vapor SL Orange Peel

(With thanks to Matthew Hannant)

In celebration of the launch of the new England away kit, Umbro has created a special edition England colourway of its celebrated SX Valor worn by John Terry and the SX Flare, the preferred choice of striker Michael Owen. Both boast bold red, white and blue colour schemes, indicative of the pride and passion that each of them play with when wearing their England shirts, provided Fabio picks them of course.

According to Umbro, their collaboration with Michelin (which sadly doesn’t include a free restaurant guide) serves to greatly enhance touch and feel for the ball, whilst players’ comfort is also taken care of thanks to the water resistant, ultra soft, high-grade leather, which keeps the feet dry.

As for which football boots us mere mortals should choose, Terry’s Valor lends itself to defenders in particular, so we can assume that they’ll automatically lump the ball in to row Z when the wearer is under pressure. The focus is on comfort, safety and control. A lightweight TPU heel counter and new kontact outsole with carbon fibre rigidity shank has been designed to keep the player’s foot stable and protected during the cut and thrust of the modern game.

See the SX Valor Boot Test with Perry Groves

Owen’s SX Flare meanwhile is probably not for the Saturday night kebab specialist having been designed for quick and skilful players as the lightweight material maximises pace and acceleration. The technology of the SX Flare will also aid control as well as looking after the players comfort and safety.

Viewers of Watchdog will be delighted to know that both football boots, which are on sale now, feature Umbro’s no nonsense control series labelling, which cuts out the jargon and explains the technology in clear, simple terms.

Nike Total 90 Laser II - the 2nd incarnation of the popular Nike Football Boot

Order this football boot NOW

The T90 Laser II takes over from the hugely popular T90 Laser. Hugely popular both in terms of sales and interestingly, used by 35% of Premier League players - you don’t get a much better testimonial than that statistic…..

So what’s changed in the T90 Laser II?

Building on the success of the T90 Laser, the first football boot designed to enhance accuracy, the T90 Laser II improves on that design. Whether it’s a shot on goal or pinpoint passing, Nike insists that the new T90 Laser II can give you the tools to help you take your game to the next level.

Working closely with its stable of world-class athletes such as Wayne Rooney and Fernando Torres, Nike has pushed the technological boundaries to improve accuracy even further, making even barn doors a target for us 40 + lardies. The precision rings that provided the T90 Laser football boot with the largest ’sweet spot’ in football has been increased, improving shooting and accuracy, whilst the enhanced shotshield technology on the front of the boot provides cleaner ball contact and superior control.

When a player strikes the ball, a well planted foot is just as important as the striking football boot. After analysing the striking action (on the field that is, not French lorry drivers) Nike has integrated a new high density outsole component that supports and stabilises the planted foot when kicking the ball.

In addition, to ensure a solid foundation, the Total 90 Laser II boasts individually engineered hybrid studs that increase traction and comfort, providing not only better balance, but making you quicker on the pitch.

To arm a player with the most swerve, power and deadly accuracy, Nike has included an integrated V-twin (offset) lacing system that maximises the strike zone. The T90 Laser II also offers the player comfort and protection with a water resistant eVent membrane that enhances breathability and keeps the foot dry.

The new football boot is available to buy from May 1st and as well as Rooney and Torres, you can expect them to be worn by the likes of William Gallas (when he’s not having a blab) tonight’s England captain Rio Ferdinand, Florent Malouda and Fabio Cannavaro.

Players: Wayne Rooney, Fernando Torres, William Gallas, Florent Malouda, Fabio Cannavaro, Gennaro Gattuso

Price: £120

Availability: May 1st 2008

Colours: Black & Army Olive / White & Red

Order this football boot NOW

If you are of a nervous disposition, Welsh or French, this week’s Oh Kay column might be one to avoid. L’enfant terrible Andy Kay is back on the warpath.

Naughty, naughty

England boss Fabio Capello says he’s squarely behind the FA’s ‘respect the referee’ initiative after watching the fun and games following Ashley Cole’s tackle on Alan Hutton in the Chelsea v Spurs game last week. Cole, at least, has had the good sense to apologise for both the tackle and his attitude towards referee Mike Riley. More and more Premier League players seem to be treating the man in black as an annoyance, rather like a large bluebottle buzzing around the family car on the M1, as opposed to the guy in charge. I fear it’s too late for current league players, and although the FA’s move is a welcome one, it doesn’t go far enough. Starting at junior level, one bit of lip to the ref, and the player, and his team, should be marched back 10 metres just as they practice in rugby union. Even more important is to include the raucous parents who scream obscenities from the touchline. Perhaps their enthusiasm to question a referee’s parentage might be somewhat tamed if little Johnny gets a 3 match ban as a result.

Cameras on Cardiff

I’ve got absolutely nothing against Cardiff City but here’s a little scenario for you. It’s the 89th minute of the FA Cup semi final and City’s match against Barnsley is level a 1 - 1. The Yorkshire side make the last attack of the game and a cross from Brian Howard is headed goalwards by substitute Jonathan Macken. The goalkeeper is beaten but a City defender, rushing towards his own line, manages to hook the ball clear. Or does he? Barnsley’s players claim the goal and start celebrating, their dream of an FA Cup final appearance now seemingly a reality. TV pictures prove that in fact, the ball didn’t cross the line but after consulting his assistant, the referee awards Barnsley the goal and blows the whistle for full time. I wonder then if the nonentities that make up the Welsh FA will still be happy with their inexplicable and cowardly decision to suck up to Fifa and oppose goal line technology?

Nosey Michel

Talking of which, one of the architects of the Fifa and Uefa U-turn on goal line technology was Michel Platini. He may have been a glorious player in his day but currently, he shows all the executive skills of a small vole with learning problems. And he just can’t keep his nose out of the British game, criticising this and having a pop at that. Perhaps Monsieur Platini should look closer to home if he wants to effect change. Consider these facts. Eight games in his native France on Saturday produced crowds of 160,000. Eight games in the Premier League on the same day were watched by 243,000 fans….and that’s with none of the big 4 in action. Perhaps that’s the problem. The only reason Platini feels the need to take issue with the game in England is that he realises that no-one gives a flying fig for Ligue 1.

Champion Channel

With ITV retaining the rights to show Champions League football on a Wednesday night, us UK football fans will be assured of some consistency. That being while Arsenal or Chelsea may be away to a top Italian side looking to hang on to a one goal advantage, good old ITV will be showing Manchester United at home to a rubbish French team who they’ve already beaten 16 - nil in the away leg. Got to keep the locals happy….in Surrey!

If you are of a nervous disposition, Welsh or French, this week’s Oh Kay column might be one to avoid. L’enfant terrible Andy Kay is back on the warpath.

Naughty, naughty

England boss Fabio Capello says he’s squarely behind the FA’s ‘respect the referee’ initiative after watching the fun and games following Ashley Cole’s tackle on Alan Hutton in the Chelsea v Spurs game last week. Cole, at least, has had the good sense to apologise for both the tackle and his attitude towards referee Mike Riley. More and more Premier League players seem to be treating the man in black as an annoyance, rather like a large bluebottle buzzing around the family car on the M1, as opposed to the guy in charge. I fear it’s too late for current league players, and although the FA’s move is a welcome one, it doesn’t go far enough. Starting at junior level, one bit of lip to the ref, and the player, and his team, should be marched back 10 metres just as they practice in rugby union. Even more important is to include the raucous parents who scream obscenities from the touchline. Perhaps their enthusiasm to question a referee’s parentage might be somewhat tamed if little Johnny gets a 3 match ban as a result.

Cameras on Cardiff

I’ve got absolutely nothing against Cardiff City but here’s a little scenario for you. It’s the 89th minute of the FA Cup semi final and City’s match against Barnsley is level a 1 - 1. The Yorkshire side make the last attack of the game and a cross from Brian Howard is headed goalwards by substitute Jonathan Macken. The goalkeeper is beaten but a City defender, rushing towards his own line, manages to hook the ball clear. Or does he? Barnsley’s players claim the goal and start celebrating, their dream of an FA Cup final appearance now seemingly a reality. TV pictures prove that in fact, the ball didn’t cross the line but after consulting his assistant, the referee awards Barnsley the goal and blows the whistle for full time. I wonder then if the nonentities that make up the Welsh FA will still be happy with their inexplicable and cowardly decision to suck up to Fifa and oppose goal line technology?

Nosey Michel

Talking of which, one of the architects of the Fifa and Uefa U-turn on goal line technology was Michel Platini. He may have been a glorious player in his day but currently, he shows all the executive skills of a small vole with learning problems. And he just can’t keep his nose out of the British game, criticising this and having a pop at that. Perhaps Monsieur Platini should look closer to home if he wants to effect change. Consider these facts. Eight games in his native France on Saturday produced crowds of 160,000. Eight games in the Premier League on the same day were watched by 243,000 fans….and that’s with none of the big 4 in action. Perhaps that’s the problem. The only reason Platini feels the need to take issue with the game in England is that he realises that no-one gives a flying fig for Ligue 1.

Champion Channel

With ITV retaining the rights to show Champions League football on a Wednesday night, us UK football fans will be assured of some consistency. That being while Arsenal or Chelsea may be away to a top Italian side looking to hang on to a one goal advantage, good old ITV will be showing Manchester United at home to a rubbish French team who they’ve already beaten 16 - nil in the away leg. Got to keep the locals happy….in Surrey!

With only nine games to go La Liga is red hot. Real Madrid lost at home to Valencia and with Barça winning, Rijkaard’s team are now just four points behind “los blancos. Atlético Madrid and Sevilla, two teams fighting for the last Champions League spot, played each other and you can find out exactly what happened in this week’s La Liga Round up by Felipe Bazon.

Mallorca 1 vs 0 Deportivo La Coruña

In the first match of the weekend things got off to an interesting start with both teams fighting to stay in La Liga next season. Mallorca tried to dominate from the start and inside 20 minutes of the first half Mallorca went ahead when a free kick taken from the right by Arango eluded everyone in the box including the keeper. Deportivo tried to respond as the match went on but Mallorca remained in control to take a vital win.

Sevilla 1 vs 2 Atlético Madrid

Atlético Madrid won a very important match to enhance their Champions League chances for next season. Atlético were the first to score through Argentinian Maxi Rodríguez but Sevilla’s managed an equaliser in the second half after good work from Kanoute and Luis Fabiano that Capel finished off. But Atlético had the decisive player in Kun Aguero who after a cross from Antonio López popped up at the far post to score the wining goal. After that, the game got rather heated and Maresca from Sevilla was sent off after he head butted Aguero.

Real Zaragoza 1 vs 1 Almería

In a very even match with both teams sharing the control, Almería managed to steal a point away from home with a very late goal. Zaragaoza focused most of their attacking through Diego Militio but it was Brazilian striker Ricardo Oliveira who gave the lead to the home side, heading home from a corner. But if Zaragoza thought they had the three points in the bag they reckoned without Uche who touched home a corner taken by Mané in the 89th minute.

Levante 1 vs 2 Villareal

Villareal won their fouth consecutive match after beating bottom side Levante. Matías Fernández gave the visitors the lead with a fizzing shot from outside the box but the home team fashioned a second half equaliser through a powerful header from Miguel Ángel. Pellegrini made three decisive changes, Cani, former Arsenal midfielder Pires and Guille Franco came on, and a few minutes later they provided the winning moment as Cani passed to Pires who dummied allowing Guille Franco to score.

Murcia 4 vs 0 Espanyol

Murcia won their first match under new coach Javier Clemente over a poor Espanyol team that gave away two penalties. Iván Alonso started the scoring from the spot and added a headed seconf. Murcia’s third also came from the penalty spot before Richi ended thr rout after an assist Iván Alonso.

Racing Santander 2 vs 0 Recreativo

Racing deservedly took three points from this game although all the scoring happened late on. Just ten minutes remained when substitute Orteman, on for Colsa, broke the deadlock. Polish international Smoralek scored the second for Racing in the fourth minute of injury time after a classic counter attack that started from a Recreativo corner.

Osasuna 0 vs 1 Real Betis

Betis finally got their revenge over Osasuna, after losing to them on the last three occasions to move away from relegation zone. The match was full of action if not goals with Osasuna going close first off through Delporte and minutes later Montreal’s free kick found Betis’s woodwork, Betis only had a couple of chances in the first half but with the home team running out of ideas and steam in the second period, the visitors made them pay with Mark Gonzáles hammering in the winner from outside the box.

Barcelona 4 vs 1 Valladolid

Two goals and two assists from one of Spain’s biggest new talents saw barca back to winning ways after their midweek loss to Valencia in the “Copa del Rey”. Looking to prove themselves in front of their passionate home fans, it took 23 minutes for wonder kid Bojan to find Samuel Eto’o with a pin point pass for the first goal. At the half hour mark Vallodilod’s striker Llorente produced a swan dive which was bought by the officials and Sesma levelled the scoresfrom the spot. At the beginning of the second half Iniesta scored to put Barça ahead again before Bojan took over to score number three and four to crown a man of the match performance.

Real Madrid 2 vs 3 Valencia

In what was this week’s most exciting game in La Liga, Real Madrid lost in front of their home fans to Valencia. In a fast paced match it was Valencia who scored first through David Villa after Madrid’s defensive frailties were once again laid bare. Madrid’s response was immediate as Ra úl headed home the equaliser before they went ahead 10 minutes in to the second half , Julio Baptista rand Guti setting up Raul for a left foot strike and his second of the game. Valencia were back on level terms through Villa who slotted home from the spot after Canavarro had fouled David Silva inside the box. With 12 minutes to go on the clock, Hildebrand denied Ra úl a hat trick with a fantastic one hand save and with that proved important as with 2 minutes of normal time left Arizmendi received a deep ball on the right, went past Canavarro and scored with style beating Casillas at his left post.

La Liga’s top ten

1 R. Madrid 29 62
2 Barcelona 29 58
3 Villarreal 29 56
4 Atlético 29 50
5 Racing 29 47
6 Sevilla 29 45
7 Espanyol 29 45
8 Athletic 29 39
9 Getafe 29 39
10 Almería 29 39

All games were played on Saturday over the Easter weekend and the fixtures also brought the Derby d’Italia as Inter faced Juve. The visitors delivered a blow to the league leaders, defeating them at home and opening up the race for the Scudetto. Roma made ground by defeating Empoli while Fiorentina and Milan recorded wins and Udinese reclaimed the Uefa cup spot from Sampdoria. Who will stay or go at the end of the season is anyone’s guess now as only a few points separate the bottom six. The final rounds of the season should be very interesting indeed.

Allan Oliveira reports

Roma vs Empoli (2-1)

Roma closed in to within 4 points of Inter following a 2 - 1 home win over Empoli. Doni was called on fairly early as he palmed away Giovinco’s shot and then found himself beaten soon after with only the goal frame to thank from another effort from Giovinco. Roma did take the lead soon after the half hour mark as Tonetto slotted in at the near post from close range, set up by a clever Totti back heel. Five minutes after the restart Empoli were level as the impressive Giovinco tapped in after a blistering counter attack and the visitors soon had another advantage as Perrotta received a straight red for a cynical challenge. But even 10 men, the home side was able to find a winner. Panucci rose up above all others to nod in a corner on 64 minutes and send the home crowd wild. They held on for all three points and dealt another blow to Empoli’s torrid season.

Atalanta vs Catania (0-0)

The home side started well in this encounter although Floccari missed a golden opportunity to score early on. The visitors fought back and forced Coppola into a fine save to deny Mascara before Atalanta were given another chance after the referee awarded a penalty for a hand ball only for Doni to be denied by Catania keeper, Polito. There was very little action after the first half hour and the result was a fitting end to a dull match. Atalanta drop a position this week to 9th while Catania maintain 16th spot.

Fiorentina vs Lazio (1-0)

Lazio found themselves a man down when Mutarelli was sent off after 38 minutes for picking up two yellow cards. Mutu was involved early on but his header was too weak to trouble Ballotta. Then he saw another header go wide as the Viola’s laid siege to the Lazio goals after the restart. At the other end Pandev’s effort was blocked by Avramov’s incredible one handed save. The home side finally scored after 77 minutes when Pazzini received the ball just inside the area and smashed it in, beating the keeper at the near post. The remaining period was very heated and just before the end of the match, both Mutu and Ledesma picked up cautions. The home side hold onto the last Champions League spot while Lazio drop a place to tenth.

Palermo vs Genoa (2-3)

Visiting Genoa began well and kept Fontana busy but it was the home side that scored first when Amauri converted a controversial penalty. Although Santos brought Cavani down, replays show him making contact with the ball first. Soon after, on 27 minutes, Figueroa equalised with a well-placed shot. Five minutes after the restart, Milanetto deservedly put the visitors ahead when Figueroa provided a low cross for the former to slide past Fontana and on 62 minutes Genoa extended the lead, Konko powering a header into the net from a corner kick. Amauri pulled one back for Palermo at the death but it wasn’t enough. Another defeat saw the home side drop to 12th while Genoa jump up to eighth.

Reggina vs Napoli (1-1)

Although Napoli have been playing well at home recently, slaying several giants, their away form continues to be inconsistent. Reggina begun well and had an appeal for a penalty perhaps unjustly waved away by the ref after Contini brought down Amoruso. They had more chances as the game progressed but it was the visitors that scored against the run of play. On 75 minutes Sosa placed his own rebounded shot into the net after his first attempt was blocked. They only had to hold on for just over 15 minutes but Brienza found an equaliser in stoppage time to give his side a share of the spoils. Reggina remain in 18th while Napoli fall a place to 11th.

Sampdoria vs Cagliari (1-1)

Cagliari continue to impress as they fight for survival. They came close to scoring just before the half hour mark, Castellazzi needing to deny Jeda. On 41 minutes their pressure paid off as Foggia beat the Sampdoria defence and blasted a shot past Castellazzi. The second half wasn’t so one-sided as Sampdoria began to get back into the match although the visitors almost doubled their advantage as Acquafresca found the net, only to have his goal disallowed because of a questionable offside call. In the dying minutes Franceschini saved some face and a point for his team, heading in at the near post. The home side drop a place and out of the last Uefa Cup spot while their visitors are now within a few points of climbing out of the relegation zone.

Siena vs Parma (2-0)

The visitors started this match well with Budan forcing a quality save from Manninger within the first few minutes. Ten minutes later Siena had a chance in the form of a free-kick but Galloppa’s effort hit the wall. After the excitement at the start, both teams began to play more defensively and it looked like a draw would be the result until Maccarone was fouled in the area and he picked himself up to convert the resulting spot kick on 88 minutes. The goal woke up Parma but unfortunately they left themselves stretched at the back and Maccarone completed his brace at the death to put the result beyond doubt. Both clubs maintain their positions in 13th and 15th respectively although Parma are back in relegation danger, just four points separating them and bottom placed Cagliari.

Torino vs Milan (0-1)

Milan controlled large parts of this match and got back on track and hot on Fiorentina’s heels. Stellone had an early effort hit the side netting while at the other end Seedorf forced a save from the home keeper after a well taken free-kick. Milan continued to press with Pato almost scoring after good work by Maldini and then Seedorf shaking the bar with his powerful volley. Finally their efforts paid off as Pato ran in to finish on 66 minutes. Despite a few lapses they held on for an important win.

Udinese vs Livorno (2-0)

The home side completed a convincing win over Livorno and took back sixth spot from Sampdoria. A goal in each half was enough as Quagliarella opened up the tally on 17 minutes, firing in from distance. Diamanti wasted a chance to equalise as he missed from close range. Minutes after the restart, Udinese grabbed their second following a defensive error. Apart from a Tristan free-kick that shook the upright, Livorno had very few chances to get back into the match. Livorno continue to sit on the edge of the relegation zone and will need to do better when they host Siena next week.

Inter vs Juventus (1-2)

The last match and much anticipated Derby d’Italia duly delivered as Juve shocked league-leaders Inter, the first team to defeat them at home this season. The sides started exchanging blows straight away, mostly in the form of set pieces but they entered the break scoreless. After the restart Juve took the lead in controversial fashion as a clearly offside Camoranesi scored after a Del Piero free kick. Inter had a couple of chances themselves but were punished for not converting them by a goal from Trezeguet on 63 minutes, a volley from close range. Both teams wasted more chances until some Maicon brilliance left three players in his wake and set up Maniche for a tap in. The Portuguese international almost salvaged a point in the final minutes but his effort hit the post. The result opens up the Scudetto race leaving just four points between Inter and Roma.

The standings

1st Inter 68pts 30 played
2nd Roma 64pts 30 played
3rd Juventus 58pts 30 played
4th Fiorentina 53pts 30 played
5th AC Milan 49pts 30 played
6th Udinese 47pts 30 played